Chinese and foreign artists experience puppets in Quanzhou. [Photo by Peng Yanzhen/qzwb.com]

The fifth Maritime Silk Road International Arts Festival held in Quanzhou has solidified the city as a hub of cultural exchange and artistic excellence, with the event attracting more than 1,600 guests from 52 art groups in 43 countries and regions.

As a key part of the festival, the 14th International Quanzhou Nanyin Conference drew 38 Nanyin societies from China and foreign countries and regions. Several participants emphasized that Nanyin is a crucial spiritual bridge connecting Chinese compatriots on the Chinese mainland, on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and overseas.

The seventh China Quanzhou International Puppetry Show, another major part of the festival, featured over 30 puppet groups from both domestic and foreign regions. A total of 80 shows captivated audiences in 56 different venues in Quanzhou. This year boasted more performances, a larger scale, and a wider range of participating puppets than ever before. Guests stated that diverse cultures blend harmoniously in Quanzhou, and appreciated how numerous ancient traditional arts have managed to thrive here and been passed down through generations, demonstrating their enduring appeal.

The Maritime Silk Road International Symposium on Art Development convened over 80 experts in literature, art, social sciences, and related fields from both China and foreign countries and regions. The symposium explored the potential of contemporary art in enhancing Quanzhou's city image, international recognition, and appeal. Participating experts said they believe that Quanzhou has the potential to become a hub for multinational cultural and artistic exchanges due to its rich heritage, openness, and inclusivity.

Five Stars Rising in the East: The Belt and Road International Fine Arts Exhibition attracts tourists. [Photo by Chen Qituo/qzwb.com]